We recently made a long awaited trip to Universal Orlando for our first experience at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here are a few photos and highlights from this awesome new addition to the Orlando theme park universe.

We entered from the "Lost Continent" side of the park, which in my opinion is the best way to access HP as it allows one to walk the streets of Hogsmeade first, and caps the experience with Hogwart's Castle. The sign reminds all the non-muggle visitors to "Please Respect the Spell Limits."

The Hogwarts Express is the first attraction as you enter the Wizarding World, with a friendly conductor there to greet the new visitors.

The roller coaster formerly known as "Dueling Dragons" has been re-themed for the Wizarding World, and takes riders through one of the stages of the "Tri-Wizard Challenge."It seems Mr. Weasley's flying car has made it's way to Orlando, however yet again it had trouble crashing into trees.

Without a doubt, the highlight of the entire experience is "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey." This ride is unlike anything I've ever experienced, and might possibly be the finest theme park ride in existence. The queue begins in Hogwarts Castle, where one makes their way through Dumbledore's office, past the Sorting Hat, and on to the ride for an adventure with Harry and the gang. Explaining it is difficult to put into words, and there is simply no way my description could do this attraction justice. You'll just have to experience it for yourself...

Special thanks goes out to the awesome Mikkel Paige for saving my wallet the pain of park entry. Next time will most certainly be on my dime, but in my opinion the Wizarding World makes Universal's Islands of Adventure worth every penny.